With her sixth studio album on the horizon and a memoir in the works, Estelle is showing no signs of slowing down. As the “American Boy” songstress looks toward the future, she’s also celebrating a major milestone, the 20th anniversary of her debut album, “18th Day.”

Estelle recently released two new songs in honor of the album that first launched her career. It was a project that defined her as one of the UK’s most soulful exports to the U.S. music scene. Looking back, she reflects on her journey from “American Boy” to now, embracing her growth as an artist and a person.

“Joy has always been there,” she said in a recent interview with 21Ninety, speaking of her personal evolution over the years. “I let other things cover it a bit, but now, I realize that joy is my home. It’s inside me.”

This deep sense of self, she explains, is at the heart of her new music, which is infused with the same authenticity that has always defined her career. As she shares her excitement about her recent projects, Estelle is adamant that her music is a reflection of her truth.

“I pray in my sessions, and whatever comes out, comes out. I mean every word,” she said of her creative process.

Fans can expect that same heartfelt energy in her upcoming work, where she hopes to tap into something universal.

“I want people to hear it and just feel joyful, like they can find that light inside themselves,” she said.

A Voice for Voting Power

The singer is known for her soulful voice as well as her political activism. She is one of many prominent voices backing Vice-President Kamala Harris as she campaigns to become the first Black woman president of the United States. The Grammy-award winning singer expressed her anticipation for a “Madame President” with both pride and optimism.

We want the right madam president in power, please,” she said.

As a dual citizen, Estelle is fully involved in the American electoral process, encouraging Black women to use their voting power to shape the future. She reflected on the critical role Black women play in this election.

“Our voice and our vote really start to move the needle,” she shared. “It’s about voting up and down the ballot. It’s about paying attention to our whole community.”

Estelle’s passion for civic engagement highlights the importance of Black women making their voices heard. She’s a reminder of the power the collective vote has to drive real change.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on the past 20 years, she remains grounded, focused on creating music that speaks to the soul.

“It’s not about the things you have; it’s about the joy that no one can take from you,” she said.

She’s also preparing to share her personal journey in a new way with her upcoming memoir. Fans can expect a deep dive into her life, both before and after the worldwide success of hits like “American Boy.”

“It’s not a tell-all or a gossip book,” Estelle clarified. “It’s about how I did it, the journey you might not know about.”

In her candid style, Estelle plans to shed light on the challenges and triumphs of her career, especially during the ten years before her breakout hit.

“People always ask me, ‘Where did she go?’ But if you’ve been following me on social media, I’ve been here, working, creating, evolving,” she said with a laugh.

In addition to her memoir, Estelle is also venturing into more film and television projects, teasing her involvement in future roles after her successful appearance on “Empire.”

“I’ve got more coming in that space, definitely,” she shared.

Fans of Estelle are in for a treat. Whether through her new music, her upcoming book, or her forays into acting.

“There’s so much more coming,” she promises. “I’m excited to share it all with you. The next six months are going to be a journey, and I hope you’re along for the ride.”